Conner Prairie revitalizing 1836 Prairietown

FISHERS, Ind. — In June, Conner Prairie Interactive History Park will unveil the newly revitalized 1836 Prairietown with new immersive programming, new structures, a new potter’s shop and new hands-on activities.

Originally opened in 1974, 1836 Prairietown is a fictional yet historically accurate pioneer village set in the 1830s with costumed staff who speak as if in the time period and interactive experiences. The town will be transformed to offer new opportunities to discover firsthand what it was like to live, work and play in Indiana’s past.

The transformation of 1836 Prairietown will include new color schemes, new structures, remodeled historic buildings and a new entry sequence designed to orient visitors to what life was like in 1836.

The Barker Brothers’ Pottery Shop is the newest building in 1836 Prairietown. Visitors can watch a master craftsman at work and then try their hand at the historic trade on model spinning wheels.

In the newly remodeled town store, guests will be able to purchase goods and souvenirs to take home with “money” earned by pitching in and lending a hand to the townsfolk. Guests can earn coins by completing odd jobs such as feeding live animals, helping with farm chores and assisting various tradesmen. The store not only offers new programming but will also have a new look both inside and out.

A grand re-opening weekend celebration will be held on June 9 and 10 to unveil all the new experiences. Special activities will include a land auction, where guests can bid on and “purchase” their own piece of Prairietown. The winning bidders will take away a deed to their new land.

A party will also be held throughout the town that includes music, dancing, games, puppet shows, participatory plays and take-home crafts.

www.connerprairie.org